Anderson, IN Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed ban
- None in city code
- Standard
- Behavior-based, not breed
- Designation by
- Board of Public Safety (Sec. 91.80)
- Vicious dog license
- $25/year (Sec. 91.82)
- Penalty
- $500-$2,500 (Sec. 91.999(B))
Summary
Anderson's animal code has no breed-specific ban. Dangerous dogs are handled by conduct under the vicious-animal provisions (Sec. 91.80 et seq.): the Board of Public Safety may designate any animal vicious after notice and a hearing, regardless of breed.
Any animal with a known propensity, tendency, or disposition to attack unprovoked, to cause injury to, or otherwise threaten the safety of human beings or domestic animals.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-25: Local legislation current through Ord. 11-26, passed 7-9-26 | State legislation current through 2025 ALS Pamphlet No. 3).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 91 contains no pit-bull or other breed prohibition. Indiana permits local breed rules, but Anderson regulates by behavior: Sec. 91.01 defines a 'vicious animal' as one with a known propensity to attack unprovoked or that without provocation attacks or bites a person or domestic animal. Under Sec. 91.80 the Board of Public Safety may designate an animal vicious after notice and hearing on the Senior Humane Officer's probable-cause report. A designated vicious animal must be confined and restrained (Sec. 91.81), carry a special $25 license (Sec. 91.82), and may not be bred (Sec. 91.87). The Board may order destruction after a hearing (Sec. 91.83).
Violations & Fines
There is no breed-based offense. A vicious designation triggers confinement, a $25 special license, and possible impoundment or destruction after a Board of Public Safety hearing. Violations of the vicious-animal sections (Sec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Anderson, Indiana ban pit bulls or any breed?
What happens if my dog is declared vicious in Anderson?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anderson
How Anderson compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Anderson to another location·View the Indiana animal ordinances overview
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